Super Bowl Competitors Thank Troops for Service

By Army Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone C. Marshall Jr.

American Forces Press
Service

WASHINGTON, Jan. 31, 2014 - Players in this year's Super Bowl set aside time
before Sunday's game to thank members of the U.S. military, particularly those
who are deployed and stationed abroad, for their sacrifices while defending the
nation.

"I want to tell all the troops over there in Afghanistan how much we
appreciate what they're doing for our country to protect our country," said
Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning. "We are praying for you."

Manning and other players from the Denver Broncos and their Super Bowl
rivals, the Seattle Seahawks expressed their gratitude for troops serving to
protect their freedoms during shout outs this week.

"Thank you all for all you do," Broncos wide receiver Wes Welker said. "You
are the reason we have the opportunity to play this game, so thank you."

"Thank you for everything you guys have done for us, and continue to do for
us to be able to be here to play this great game of football," said Russell
Wilson, quarterback for the Seahawks. "Thank you guys so much for everything you
do protecting our country."

"Hey, we appreciate all your hard work and your dedication, and your
sacrifice," Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman said. "Thank you for everything
you do for our country and for us fighting for our freedom. We appreciate
it."

Golden Tate, a wide receiver for the Seahawks, thanked troops for serving and
hoped they will enjoy the game.

"This country wouldn't be anything without you guys serving and fighting for
us every single day for our freedom," Tate said. "We appreciate it so much, and
we hope you enjoy the show."

For others, such as Seahawks wider receiver Doug Baldwin, their message came
from a little closer to home.

"My family is a military family," Baldwin said. "We appreciate everything
those guys do. It's very heartfelt for me."

Both teams want military members to know they are not forgotten.

"To the men and women serving overseas -- come home safe," said Seahawks
running back Marshawn Lynch.